Domestic violence is a deadly serious issue for all

This Saturday at the Glynn Place Mall is sure to be a hilarious sight. Men will be strutting their stuff in high-heeled shoes, something sure to prove much more difficult than many men might think.

But the sight of a bunch of men stumbling around in a pair of foreign foot wear is not going to happen purely for entertainment value. There is a deadly serious reason these men will throw off their loafers, boots and flip flops for a pair of pumps.

The first-ever Trot-the-Block in Her Shoes event will raise money for Glynn Community Crisis Center, an agency that helps women escape domestic violence.

According to a 2015 report by the Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence, half of domestic homicide victims were killed by partners they met between the ages of 13 and 24. In Georgia alone last year, there were 139 violence-related deaths perpetrated by men in domestic situations.

These are startling numbers that arise from relationships in all demographics.

The crisis center operates a 24/7 hotline and a shelter for victims with the hope that women who find themselves in an abusive relationship will take an opportunity to leave it before it is too late.

Domestic violence has become all too common lately, especially in national headlines. Musicians, athletes and politicians are being accused, it seems, on an almost weekly basis. In almost every case, it is men committing violence against their female partners.

This has to stop, but to reach that goal men will have to jump on board with places like the crisis center and let other men domestic abuse will not be tolerated.

Which is why Saturday’s Trot-the-Block in Her Shoes event is such a good idea to raise awareness of the issue during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

“We really just wanted to do something, to have an event for October to raise awareness,” Elizabeth Dunn, an outreach coordinator with the crisis center told The News this week. “A lot of men find it hard to get involved in domestic violence prevention. This is a good way to get involved. It’s a funny, more relaxed atmosphere.”

She is even planning to give prizes for the highest heels, best walk and for overall first place.

It is a fun way to get men involved in fighting an issue that must be fought by all people, not just women.

We encourage all men in Glynn County to be at the mall at 10 a.m. to register for the event on Saturday. Registration is free with $25 in pledges to sponsor an individual’s walk or $10 without. The walk starts at 11 a.m. More information is available at 264-1348.

Even more importantly, if someone you know is showing signs of abuse, help is available. Call the Glynn Community Crisis Center’s hotline at 264-4357 or at 800-334-2836.